Policy Updates and Reminders

The following is expanded information on policies that are included in the Student Handbook, Code of Conduct, Residence Hall Policies, Room Regulations or the Housing Agreement.

Breach of Security

(see Code of Conduct, Prohibited Conduct 3.c.)

The College provides each student room with a lock and distributes keys to residents. Each residence hall is equipped with a card reader access system programmed to admit resident students only. Although these security measures are in place, our halls and apartments are secure only if each person is aware of how his/her actions impact the total security of residents. You are expected to take all reasonable precautions to maintain the security of the residence halls/apartments. The following behaviors are considered violations of the Code of Conduct. Students found responsible will be fined a maximum of $100 per violation.

Propping open a locked door.

Inviting, encouraging, or admitting an unauthorized person or persons to enter the hall when a building is secured. (Note: visitors must be registered with Security and may be entertained only during the hours visitation is in effect.)

Presence of an unauthorized person.

Attempting to enter a secured building or secured sections of a building (student rooms, lounges, apartment attics or basements, etc.).

Tampering with or removing an automatic locking mechanism or alarm on any door.

Use of any door specifically designated as an "emergency exit only" except during an emergency.

Possession and/or use of a key to a College building when not specifically authorized by a College official or department.

Entering a student room without being invited by the room occupants.

Possession of keys that have been duplicated without authorization from the College Locksmith.

Lending keys to your room to another person other than Residential Life Staff.

Confiscation Policy

(see Student Policies Manual, Search Policy)

College personnel, including Safety and Security and Residential Life staff, have the authority to confiscate items that violate College and/or Residence Life policy. Confiscated alcohol is stored by the Office of Safety and Security and disposed of at least once a year. Alcohol, alcohol related items (i.e., kegs, funnels, taps) and items that pose health and/or safety risks (i.e., appliances, candles, flammable substances, weapons, etc.) will not be returned to the student or his/her guest. Where possible and appropriate, items will be donated to a local charity. Pets found within the residence halls will be removed in accordance with that policy.

Fire Safety

(see Code of Conduct, Prohibited Conduct 3.b.)

Fire alarm systems, fire extinguishers and exit signs are required by the state, are for the protection of all residents, and are to be used only in case of fire. Each resident is responsible for being familiar with the location of exits, fire extinguishers and alarm pull stations. Residence hall staff will be happy to provide additional information or assistance in this area. Tampering with fire equipment or setting off a false fire alarm is a misdemeanor under state law. Deliberately causing a fire is a felony. Disciplinary action and/or arrest will be taken against a student found tampering with fire equipment, falsely setting off the alarm system, or causing a fire.

The following violations will be handled through the College disciplinary process with the noted minimum sanctions:

Authorized College personnel to insure that health, fire and safety regulations are maintained. The College gives at least 24 hours prior notice that inspection is being made unless conditions do not permit prior notification.

Authorized College personnel or agents to make improvements and repairs to provide routine maintenance and housekeeping services.

Authorized College personnel in emergency situations to protect the health and welfare of students or to make emergency repairs to prevent damage to student or College property.

Authorized College officials when there is probable cause to believe a violation of College or civil regulations is being committed. Probable cause means reasonable grounds for suspicion supported by circumstances sufficiently strong to warrant a cautious person's belief that a party is committing an illegal act. Refer to the Lycoming College Student Handbook for the complete search policy.

Authorized College personnel indicated above are: members of the Residential Life staff, members of the Building and Grounds staff, College personnel or their agents contracted to perform maintenance or repair services on behalf of the halls, and Safety and Security staff. Other members of the College staff may enter under conditions prescribed only when accompanied by authorized personnel or their agents. There should be two staff members present, if at all possible. In all instances, such entry is made only for the purposes set forth above. Observed possible violation of College policy, rules, or regulations will be referred to the Residential Life staff for follow up.

Trespassing

(see Code of Conduct, Prohibited Conduct 9.a.)

Residence hall and apartment premises are for the exclusive use of residents, their guests, and College personnel. Any persons other than residents, their registered and escorted guests, and/or authorized College personnel are prohibited from entering or remaining upon these premises. During break periods only students who have properly registered for break housing are allowed access to the halls. This means that your guests may only include resident students, who also have permission to stay for the break. Overnight guests are strictly prohibited during break periods.